The expanded use of low VOC paints has changed the manner in which sign companies approach the selling of vinyl graphics and their preparation for the installation of traditionally straight forward wall graphics. As the chemical makeup of paint has progressed over the years in order to diminish the level of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), traditional vinyl film has been challenged with its capacity to properly adhere to recently painted wall surfaces.
Given the fact paint manufacturers protect their paint formulations as a trade secret, vinyl film manufacturers have had difficulty gaining an understanding and ability to produce greater adhering properties for their film. This aspect, in combination with the continued trend of creating wall graphics via wide format printers, suggests that vinyl manufacturers may be with unable or unwilling to remedy this issue.
Another contributing factor to this dilemma is that some films will adhere to some colors in a facility and not to other colors within the same facility even though the paint is produced by the same paint manufacturer. Evidently some pigments generate more low VOCs than others. This means that every individual wall color must be tested independently as some films work on one color while another film may work on a different color.
What is the solution?
Candidly, there is no easy answer; but there are some options:
- Up front collaboration between architects, interior designers, contractors, owners and sign companies so all parties generate an understanding of needs and expectations. Ideally, this issue is addressed during building design and prior to painting as the most cost effective option is to paint the walls that will contain graphics with standard (non-low VOC paint).
- Conduct adhesion tests on the walls that will contain graphics with the exact film specified to ensure proper adhesion. Some vinyl manufacturers have developed test kits for this purpose.
- Re-paint specific wall sections where vinyl graphics are to be located. Some clients have re-painted small sections of walls with a matching color, standard paint and some have chosen a contrasting color coordinated with the colors of the vinyl graphics.
- Utilize a “wash” to change the paint properties so the vinyl will adhere. (Note: use caution and test in inconspicuous area as the wash my change the sheen of the paint.)
Regardless of your approach, it is best to proceed with awareness and caution!
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Source: 3M Instruction Bulletin 5.37